I have a two person tech startup. Getting very warm reception on prototype and about to negotiate a pilot with a company, as well as start speaking with investors.

It’s too early to file for patent, but I know there is an issue where disclosure of the idea or product turns it into prior art/public knowledge, which you cannot then patent (save for a grace period, depending on country).

How careful were other founders in sharing info? Did you try not to put much detail on your website? Use NDAs in meetings?

Advice and experiences much appreciated!

  • PortolaDude@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    I filed multiple patents for my startup and we never used them. They took a lot of my engineering team’s time and were expensive to write, file, revise, and maintain. They never generated a penny in revenue.

    I’ve only seen large companies defend and monetize patents, so if being acquired by an IP-focused company is in your exit strategy, they are worth considering, but I would be judicious with your time and money.